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David Krejci and the Bruins are waiting to see if the NHL players and owners can sort out their differences and start the season on time.

But regardless whether or not there's a lockout, one thing seems clear: Tim Thomas won't be between the pipes for the B's.

Thomas, of course, has decided to take a year off from the NHL. leaving Tuukka Rask as the team's starting goalie. While Rask has a bright future in the league, TT's former teammates still recognize that the former Conn Smythe and Vezina winner could have been an asset to the team.

"I hope [Thomas is] going to come back," Krejci told WEEI.com at a Bruins charity event on Monday. "If not, I think he left too early because he's still one of the best goalies in the league. It would be bad for everybody, for the league, for the fans, for himself and for us if he wouldn't [resume] his career."

Krejci admitted that he "was in shock a little bit" when he first heard the news that Thomas would be sitting out, but did say that he had to respect Thomas' personal decision.

"If he wants to take a year off," the Bruins forward said, "then he should do what he feels is right for him and his family."

For now, Thomas' family in the Bruins locker room will continue on without him.